Creature Cantina Action Playset

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Box Front

box side (click to enlarge)
Box Side (click to enlarge)

 


Catalog Entry
Catalog Description:

RECREATE EXCITING ACTION IN THE WEIRD MOS EISLEY CANTINA!

From the scenic backdrop to the action platform, Kenner's STAR WARS CREATURE CANTINA is pure adventure. By pushing the floor button, CANTINA door swings open and STORMTROOPER can enter. WALRUS MAN threatens LUKE SKYWALKER at the bar! Move action lever and BEN KENOBI knocks over creature. In rear alcove, HAN SOLO meets GREEDO. With action lever, SOLO knocks him over in mock battle. Circular bar surrounded by foot pegs for placement of SNAGGLETOOTH, HAMMERHEAD, or other STAR WARS action figures (not included). Ages 4 and up.

Source: 1980 Kenner Pre-Toy Fair Catalog


Description:
The second of Kenner's playsets based on the infamous Mos Eisley Cantina, the Creature Cantina is not to be confused with the cardboard Cantina Adventure Set, first released in late 1978 as a Sears exclusive. As the above catalog description proves, this toy was chock full of action features. And details like the almost surreal backdrop and nifty false stone floor made it a reasonable interpretation of the environment presented in the film. The toy is still relatively easy to find, in either loose or boxed condition. Collectors of boxed toys should note that, unlike most of Kenner's toys, the Creature Cantina did not come with cardboard inserts intended to bolster the sturdiness of the box.

U.K. toy licensee Palitoy issued a Cantina playset, which, although similar to its American counterpart, was different in several major ways. Despite its being shown in ESB packaging in some Kenner literature, the Creature Cantina was only issued in a Star Wars box. However, the base of the toy was recycled for the Western Cafe playset from Kenner's Real West line of 1980. The Real West base is easily identified by its dark brown color. (Click here for more information on recycled Star Wars toys.)

First Issued: 1979 (SW Packaging)
Re-issues: None


Description by: Ron Salvatore
Photo: Ron Salvatore
From the collection of: Ron Salvatore
Country:United States
Film:A New Hope
Licensee:Kenner
Year:1979
Category:Toys / Action Figure Related / Playsets


  


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